Review: Murder (1930)

Alfred Hitchcock's 'Murder!' is not always the first film that comes to mind when discussing his extensive oeuvre, but it certainly deserves a closer look, especially for those of us who are collectors and enthusiasts of classic cinema. Released in 1930, 'Murder!' is Hitchcock's third sound film and stands as a fascinating example of his early experimentation with the thriller genre. It offers a unique blend of suspense and drama, hinting at the signature style that would later define his career.

Plot Summary

'Murder!' introduces us to a gripping tale of crime and justice. The film follows the story of Diana Baring, an actress who finds herself accused of murder after being discovered next to the dead body of her friend. The evidence is stacked against her, and a swift conviction seems inevitable. However, Sir John Menier, a renowned actor and member of the jury, harbors doubts about Diana's guilt. Driven by his conviction that she is innocent, Sir John embarks on a personal investigation to uncover the truth. His journey takes him through a web of deception and leads to a climax that keeps audiences guessing until the very end.

Performances

The performances in 'Murder!' are noteworthy, particularly considering the era's transition from silent films to talking pictures. Herbert Marshall, in his first major film role, delivers a strong performance as Sir John Menier. He brings a sense of gravitas and intelligence to the role, capturing the audience's attention with his charismatic screen presence. Norah Baring, playing the wrongfully accused Diana, portrays vulnerability and desperation with a subtlety that resonates, even today. Though some supporting performances may feel a bit dated, they add to the film's charm and period authenticity.

Direction and Craft

Hitchcock's direction in 'Murder!' is an intriguing study of a filmmaker honing his craft. The movie showcases his innovative use of sound, a relatively new tool at the time. Hitchcock's experimentation with this element is evident in the way he uses audio cues to build tension and enhance the narrative. One notable scene involves an internal monologue delivered by Sir John, a technique Hitchcock skillfully employs to provide deeper insight into the character's thoughts and motivations.

Visually, the film is a reflection to Hitchcock's burgeoning style. His use of shadows and lighting foreshadows the noir elements that would later become a hallmark of his work. The camera work, although less fluid than in his later films, still manages to convey a sense of suspense and unease. Hitchcock's eye for detail and composition is apparent in every frame, making 'Murder!' a fascinating piece for those interested in the evolution of film techniques.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, 'Murder!' is a significant addition to any Hitchcock collection. It may not be as polished as his later works, but it offers valuable insight into the early stages of his career. The best format to own this film is undoubtedly Blu-ray, where the restoration efforts allow the film's visual and audio elements to shine. However, finding a quality copy can be challenging, making it a rare gem in the realm of physical media.

A must-have for Hitchcock enthusiasts, 'Murder!' provides a fascinating glimpse into the early career of a director refining his suspenseful style. While it may not hold the same level of fame as 'Psycho' or 'Vertigo', its historical significance and unique qualities make it a worthy addition for serious collectors.

In conclusion, 'Murder!' is an engaging film that blends suspense, drama, and early sound film experimentation. It stands as a reflection to Hitchcock's innovative spirit and offers a window into the formative years of one of cinema's most influential directors.

Rating this film, I would give it a solid 3.5 stars out of 5. It may not reach the heights of Hitchcock's later masterpieces, but it is an essential piece of film history that offers entertainment and insight in equal measure.